Legendary Actress and Three-Time Oscar Nominee Diane Ladd Passes Away at 89
Legendary actress and three-time Oscar nominee Diane Ladd has passed away at the age of 89. Her daughter, Laura Dern, announced the news, revealing that Ladd died peacefully at her home in Ojai, California, with Dern by her side. The exact cause of death has not been disclosed.
Diane Ladd’s Career Highlights
Ladd’s career spanned several decades and included a mix of television, stage, and film performances. She gained significant recognition for her role in Martin Scorsese’s 1974 film, “Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore.” This performance earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for portraying the tough and humorous character, Flo.
- Notable Films:
- Chinatown
- Primary Colors
- Wild at Heart
- Rambling Rose
In addition to her film work, Ladd was a familiar face on television. She appeared in popular series such as “ER,” “Touched by an Angel,” and “Alice,” which was a spinoff of her 1974 film.
Family and Legacy
Born in Laurel, Mississippi, Ladd was related to several notable figures in the arts. Tennessee Williams was her second cousin, and her first husband, Bruce Dern, was also an Academy Award nominee. Remarkably, both Ladd and Laura Dern were nominated for an Oscar for their roles in “Rambling Rose,” a rare achievement for a mother-daughter duo.
Ladd’s impact on the industry extended beyond her performances. In her 2006 memoir, “Spiraling Through the School of Life,” she recalled how her great-grandmother once predicted her future in acting. At that point in her life, she had already established her legacy, confidently stating that she had honed her craft to perform a wide range of accents and genres.
Diane Ladd leaves behind a rich legacy as both a talented actress and a beloved mother. Her contributions to film and television will be remembered by fans and peers alike.
